Thu Nov 21 17:07:51 UTC 2024: ## Upalokayukta Orders Action to Rejuvenate Neglected Century-Old Tank
**Dharwad, November 21, 2024** – Upalokayukta K.N. Phaneendra has launched a suo motu case against officials responsible for the severe neglect of the century-old Kelageri Tank in Dharwad. His visit on Thursday revealed the tank to be heavily polluted, with 80% of its surface covered in water hyacinth and sewage flowing into it. The walking path is dilapidated, and residents are contributing to the problem by dumping waste.
Phaneendra issued a 20-day ultimatum for officials to begin a rejuvenation project, warning of further legal action if no significant improvements are seen. The Hubballi Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC), the tank’s owner, and the University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS) Dharwad have been criticized for passing the responsibility onto each other. The HDMC has, however, presented a ₹150 crore proposal for the development of tanks in the twin cities, including Kelageri, which will be submitted to the Governor.
Immediate actions ordered by the Upalokayukta include fencing the tank to prevent further waste dumping, installing CCTV cameras to monitor and penalize offenders, and increased police presence to combat its use as a liquor den. The tank management committee and tank owners will be included in the suo motu case and required to provide documentation. Phaneendra will personally revisit the site in three weeks to assess progress. Local officials have pledged their cooperation and plan to begin the cleaning process immediately.
First Piper 